Another day's Test cricket and another day of Australian dominance. Before I get on to some hard and fast thoughts - which is all I'm really left with as the Aussies looks to set up an excessively large run chance - it's been very interesting to see two 'aggressive/attacking' teams matched up against each other.

So far in this Test aggression from the BLACKCAPS has looked forced, while Australia have scored their runs quickly and relied on a slightly more traditional way of taking wickets. This is merely a little taster of a thought as the BLACKCAPS have been under pressure with both bat and ball, thanks to the Aussies along with the injury to Tim Southee but watching David Warner and Joe Burns score freely without taking too many risks this afternoon has reinforced the fact that there needs to be some balance.

There's not much balance when Brendon McCullum bats and the same goes for Southee. Sure Southee's injured, but kiwi cricket fans have watched Southee rather hopelessly swing his blade for years now.

I guess this Test has just got me a bit down.

Even Kane Williamson, the glorious Kane Williamson. The Prince. Prince Kane. Even the joy that Williamson brought me with was countered by the stink vibes that the vast gap between Williamson and the rest of the kiwi batsmen offered. Williamson is exceptional and he'll be the best batsman to represent Aotearoa, but Williamson alone will never lead the BLACKCAPS to Test victories.

It's hard to judge today's bowling display with Southee out of action and Jimmy Neesham clearly looking to have some sort of injury. Yesterday I asked for grit and determination with the bat, which wasn't exactly shown (Williamson showed glorious batsmanship which is a few levels above grit) and you've got to wonder if there is any point showing grit with the ball at this stage.

The BLACKCAPS are now at the mercy of Steve Smith. I reckon Smithy will be looking at a lead of 550 runs, perhaps even 600 as there are two days left to play which is plenty of time to chase down a big total so the more the merrier for Australia.

Day four = the biggest test that this BLACKCAPS team has faced under Brendon McCullum.

Grit, guts and determination wasn't shown on day three, it's desperately needed on day four.

Oh, but Prince Kane...